New Wedding Bands: Trends And Styles

Wedding band trends are constantly evolving, and couples are increasingly opting for unique and personalised designs that reflect their individual styles. One notable trend is the rise in popularity of mismatched wedding bands, where couples choose rings that complement each other rather than perfectly match sets. This allows for more creativity and self-expression in the choice of metals, textures, and gemstones.

For instance, men's wedding bands are becoming more subtle, stylish, and elegant, with a preference for simple yet unique designs. Textured wedding bands, such as braided patterns in white, yellow, or rose gold, add a creative and cool touch to the traditional wedding ring. Diamonds, once considered unusual in men's wedding bands, are now a popular choice, adding a touch of sparkle and class to the design.

Couples are also experimenting with mixed metals, blending traditional yellow and white gold with unconventional metals like stainless steel, rose gold, or brushed steel. Customised wedding bands remain a perennial favourite, allowing couples to incorporate meaningful text, add diamonds or gemstones, or mix metals to create a truly one-of-a-kind ring.

In addition to these trends, alternative metals like platinum, cobalt, titanium, and tungsten carbide are gaining popularity for their strength, finish, and affordable price points. Wooden wedding rings, known for their comfort, durability, and eco-friendliness, offer a unique and personal option for nature-loving couples.

Stacked rings

Stacked wedding rings are a unique and customisable way to showcase your personal style and celebrate your union. The trend involves wearing multiple rings on the same finger, usually with an engagement ring at the centre, combined with a wedding band and a few additional rings. The result is a layered look that reflects your personality and tells a story with each ring.

There are several ways to create a stacked wedding ring set. You can build around your existing engagement ring, using it as the focal point and choosing additional bands that complement its style and design. You can also experiment with colours and styles by mixing and matching different ring colours and gemstones. For instance, you could pair an engagement ring with a rounded edge with a band that has small round, oval, pear or marquise stones.

When stacking rings, it is important to consider sizing. As you add bands, size up slightly so that each piece fits your finger comfortably. You can also try mixing metals and adding elements of personalisation, such as birthstone bands, engravings or symbol-inspired designs, to make your stack even more meaningful.

Stacked wedding rings are a great option for those who want to switch up their style and express their one-of-a-kind aesthetic. With so much versatility, they are also perfect for those who want to ditch tradition. Whether you add rings to commemorate special occasions or simply to change up your look, stacked wedding rings offer endless possibilities to showcase your love and style.

Two-tone rings

A two-tone ring is composed of two different metals, with the most common combinations being platinum and yellow gold. However, any combination of yellow, rose, or white gold can be used to create a two-tone look. This style can be a beautiful way to symbolise the coming together of two different lives and can add a unique twist to traditional wedding bands.

For those who want to make a statement with their wedding bands, a two-tone ring can be a perfect choice. The different metals can be used to accentuate the shine of the gemstone, creating a seamless and elegant look. For example, white gold prongs can be paired with a yellow gold band, allowing the diamond's brilliance to take centre stage. This technique is especially effective with lighter-coloured stones, such as white diamonds.

When it comes to two-tone rings, the possibilities are endless. You can opt for a simple solitaire setting with a yellow or rose gold band and white prongs, or go for a more intricate design with floral-inspired prong heads, recycled diamonds, and ornate filigree. Two-tone bands can also be split, with a wrap-around bezel setting that seamlessly blends two metals, such as white gold and rose gold. For a bolder look, consider a two-tone ring with a matte finish on one metal and sparkle on the other, creating a blend of textures that is sure to turn heads.

While two-tone rings may be harder to find and customise, they are just as durable as single-tone rings, and the extra cost is worth it for a ring that truly reflects your individual style and symbolises your everlasting commitment.

Pear-shaped rings

When choosing a wedding band to complement a pear-shaped engagement ring, it is important to consider the setting type. Pear-cut rings can be set in various styles, including solitaire, halo, pavé, and three-stone settings. The setting will determine the overall look and feel of the ring. If you want the pear-shaped diamond to be the focal point, opt for a simpler wedding band. If you prefer a more balanced look, consider a cluster band that curves smaller diamonds around the pointed end of the pear. Thin bands also complement the pear shape better than thicker bands, as thicker bands can overwhelm the delicate shape.

Another factor to consider is the profile of the engagement ring. High-profile rings have the centre stone propped up by prongs or a basket, allowing the wedding band to slide under the pear and rest neatly against the band of the engagement ring. On the other hand, low-profile rings have the diamond's head level or close to the band, which may block a wedding band from fitting flush against it.

When it comes to the metal choice, pear-cut diamonds can be set in any metal. However, it is recommended to let the colour of the diamond guide your choice. If the diamond has yellowish tints, opt for yellow or rose gold to mask the hue. If the diamond is more colourless, choose platinum or white gold to enhance its crisp, icy white colour.

Finally, it is important to protect the point of the pear-shaped diamond, as it is the most fragile and vulnerable area. Settings like halo or bezel offer protection to the point, with the former surrounding the diamond with a layer of smaller diamonds and the latter with a full layer of metal.

Coloured gemstones

Couples can experiment with different combinations of gemstones and metals to create a customised look that reflects their style and preferences. For instance, a rose gold wedding band with a round cut gemstone can be a stylish choice, as the metal's tone complements the stone and enhances its brilliance.

Some popular gemstone options include:

• Blue sapphire: A classic choice, often paired with diamonds, creating a unique vintage look.
• Ruby: Symbolising passion and love, rubies are a popular choice for both classic and modern designs, and can be paired with yellow gold for a unique fashion statement.
• Emerald: A vibrant green gemstone, often paired with diamonds, adding a touch of elegance and nature-inspired colour to the band.
• Pink sapphire: Adding a romantic and feminine touch to the band, pink sapphires can be combined with white gold for a delicate and dreamy aesthetic.

These gemstones can be set in a variety of metals, including platinum, yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, each contributing to the ring's overall aesthetic and structural integrity. Couples can also opt for stackable wedding bands, featuring multiple slender bands, each adorned with a different coloured gemstone, creating a personalised and versatile look.

Coloured gemstone wedding bands offer a unique way to express personal style and individuality, infusing vibrant colours and symbolic meanings into the design.

Chunky bands

Chunky Wedding Bands

Chunky wedding bands are back in style, with the resurgence of 1990s-inspired fashion and jewellery trends. While thin and delicate rings have been popular in recent years, the new trend sees a return to thicker bands, with some couples opting for a few rings to stack on their big day or adding bands to mark milestones, such as an anniversary.

Chunky wedding bands can give the appearance of bigger, more expensive jewellery. They also offer more finger coverage, creating a statement look. Plus, with multiple bands, you can mix and match to suit your style, creating a versatile look.

Celebrities Leading the Trend

Hailey Bieber, Meghan Markle, and Ariana Grande are often changing up their ring stacks, opting for chunkier wedding bands.

Tips for Buying Chunky Bands

When buying chunky bands, it's important to consider your hand size. If you have smaller hands, you may want to scale down the chunkiness of your ring to ensure it doesn't overwhelm your hand. Stacked rings are a great option if you want to try out the trend without fully committing, as you can add or remove bands to suit the occasion.

Chunky Band Examples

• The Evermore: A bold ring with a minimal band.
• The Mia: A simple, chunky band.
• The Chloe: A minimalist band that works well with chunkier rings.
• The Passion: A trio of gold bands with a rope-like texture.
• The Artemis: A large, statement band that can be the starting point for a chunky stack.

Frequently asked questions